As someone who enjoys microtrends, but is often slow to adopt them, the swiftness with which I sought out my first pair of platform UGGs surprised even me. And judging from retailers’ inability to keep these shoes in stock, I am guessing I am not the only person compelled to action by these new additions to UGG’s classic boots lineup.
Unsure what the fuss is about? Read on for a review of the UGG Classic Mini Platform Boots.
WHY THE CLASSIC MINI PLATFORM BOOT & DESIGN DETAILS
In short, what UGG has done is take their classic mini boot (reviewed here) and added a trendy chunky base. It’s not a monumental design change, just a small tweak that picked up on the zeitgeist. But add some celebrity endorsements by way of pap shots, and you have the makings of a viral item.
Like other classic UGG boots, the Classic Mini Platform Boots have suede uppers which have been treated for water-repellence and stain-resistance. The interior is lined in a plush and warm material called UGGplush that’s 80% wool and 20% lyocell*.
* the lining is 17mm thick, which is substantial, but UGG started using this other material, also called “UGGplush,” which uses a greater percentage of lyocell: 60% upcycled wool, 40% lyocell.
The 2″ platform is bookended by the EVA midsole and UGG’s proprietary SugarSole™ EVA outsole. Despite the chunky base, the shoe feels stable and is almost as easy to walk in (on flat surfaces) as its platform-less siblings.
The UGG classic boot is easily identified by the tonal stitching on the exterior, and UGG branding at the heel. The rear pull tabs facilitate easy-on, easy-off.
The Classic Mini Platform Boot is a surprisingly lightweight shoe for a style with platform, so would be a great (not to mention, fun!) option for everyday use when light outdoor activities are involved.
This boot is best for dry conditions, and I would avoid this shoe if you anticipate walking on icy roads, as the sole lacks heavy lug or traction patterns that will grip icy surfaces.
MATERIAL & WORKMANSHIP
Boots in UGG’s classic lineup are generally well made and, based on my experience, last between five to eight seasons; I generally only retire them when the lining starts to thin from (aggressively) cleaning the insoles. However, in the last few years, UGG started using its proprietary blend of (partially) faux shearling (called UGGplush) in classic boots, and it’s unclear to me (after only two seasons) what the quality impacts of this decision are.
UGGplush aside, the Classic Mini Platform Boots has another quality control issue that caught me by surprise: the contrasting black platform is (lightly) stained on the side with the bright pink dye of the upper; the high contrast made this color transfer highly visible. I imagine in neutral colorways this wouldn’t be an issue, but want to mention it for thoroughness’s sake.
FIT
UGG classic boots are plushily-lined and only offered in whole sizes* but they have a forgiving round toe, so I would recommend going with your normal size, unless you have narrow feet. Also keep in mind that these boots will stretch (some) with wear, so the shoes should gently hug your feet to start.
* Some fit guides suggest that these boots run half a size large, but I feel the fit differential is closer to a quarter of a size. If you are in between sizes but have slightly wider feet, ordering the next size up might be more comfortable than the alternative.
If you wear a half size, I would only recommend sizing down if you have narrow feet and plan to wear these boots sockless. If you wear a half size but have wider feet and/or plan to wear winter socks with your UGGs, upsize to the next whole size.
The abbreviated shaft height of 5″ shouldn’t pose an issue for those with moderately high insteps or somewhat wide feet, but for those with a very high instep or extra wide feet (i.e., EE or EEE widths), this pull-on style might not be the easiest to put on, or get off.
Right: UGG Classic Mini Platform Boot
PRICE
You are undeniably paying a premium for the UGG brand at $160 a pair, but the Classic Mini Platform Boots in classic colorways is a well-made winter shoe that also allows you to dabble in this season’s platform trend. As this is a new style that’s currently selling well for UGG, discounts aren’t likely, especially in a neutral colorway.
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UGG CLASSIC ULTRA MINI PLATFORM
UGG also offers the Classic Platform Boots with an “ultra mini” 3.5″ shaft (compared to the mini’s 5″ shaft), for those who want to show off more ankle or fun socks. This style, however, is selling like hotcakes, so if you are interested, check the UGG website often for restocks.
ALTERNATIVES
Do UGG’s Classic Mini Platform Boots feel too plain, even with the trendy platform? Try the UGG Neumel Heritage Platform Chukka Boot, which has lace-up details, or the Dr. Martens 2976 Platform Faux-Fur Lined Chelsea Boot, which feel edgier with a waxy leather upper and a contrast-stitch Goodyear welt.
Love the look but not the price tag? Bearpaw offers a more affordable option, the Retro Shorty Bootie (<$100), that’s comparable in spec but without the UGG premium.
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You can buy the UGG Classic Mini Platform Boots at Amazon, Bloomingdale’s (more colorways here), Dillard’s, Farfetch, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and UGG.
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Find my comparison review of UGG’s Classic Mini Boots here.
